Faith, Gratitude and Legacy: Thousands Gather at Obua’s Ajuri Home in Thanksgiving After Parliamentary Exit

Ajuri County, Alebtong District — Thousands of residents, supporters, clergy, and well-wishers on Sunday, February 1, 2026, thronged the home of outgoing Ajuri County Member of Parliament and Government Chief Whip, Hon. Denis Hamson Obua, for a thanksgiving prayer service marked by reflection, gratitude, and celebration of over a decade of public service.

The prayer gathering came shortly after the recently concluded parliamentary elections in which Obua conceded defeat to UPC candidate Fred Jalameso, bringing to an end his three consecutive terms representing Ajuri County since the constituency’s creation in 2011. Rather than dwelling on the loss, the former legislator chose to host a thanksgiving ceremony, describing it as a moment to thank God and the people of Ajuri for the opportunity to serve.

Addressing the massive crowd, Obua drew inspiration from 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 (NIV), urging believers to remain joyful, prayerful, and thankful in all circumstances. He emphasized that gratitude is not dependent on outcomes but is a central pillar of faith. Concluding his message, he declared, “To God be the glory,” drawing applause from the congregation.

Reflecting on his personal journey, Obua described his rise as an act of faith and divine grace. From what he termed a humble background in Ajuri, he ascended to national leadership, holding some of the most influential positions in Parliament and government. He likened his story to the biblical question of whether anything good could come from Nazareth, underscoring his belief that leadership is ultimately ordained by God and sustained by community support.

Obua used the occasion to highlight the transformation Ajuri County has undergone during his tenure. At the time he assumed office, the county had only three sub-counties; today, it has seven. Of these, five are already connected to electricity, with the remaining two mapped for connection. The education sector also saw significant growth, with the number of secondary schools increasing from three to eight, ensuring that each sub-county has at least one secondary school. Ajuri now boasts four government seed schools—the highest number in the country.

In the health sector, Obua pointed to the establishment of three new health centers, the acquisition of government ambulances, a well-equipped medical theatre, and the provision of beds to all seven health facilities in the county. Two ambulances were deployed to handle emergencies, significantly improving access to healthcare services.

Agriculture, a backbone of the local economy, also benefited from targeted interventions. Each sub-county received two handheld tractors, while women aged 18 and above were supported with hand hoes to boost household and community food production.

Infrastructure development featured prominently in Obua’s record. Bridges were constructed in Otoke, Aguru, and Ajuri, with works ongoing in Ayumu. Several primary schools were renovated under World Bank-funded projects, while solar streetlights were installed in seven urban centers. Water projects were rolled out across the county, boreholes repaired, and school renovations supported through partnerships with organizations such as Tororo Cement and Plan International.

Beyond government-led initiatives, Obua highlighted his role in organizing medical and surgical camps in collaboration with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), as well as supporting churches, mosques, and other community institutions.

His national leadership credentials were also recalled during the gathering. Over the years, Obua served as Commissioner of Parliament, State Minister for Sports, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Science and Technology, and Spokesperson of the Commonwealth Youth Forum. Earlier in his parliamentary career, he was voted the best-performing MP, earning a rare 100 percent rating.

The thanksgiving prayer service was not only a personal milestone for Obua but also a communal moment of appreciation, as residents acknowledged the impact of his leadership on Ajuri County. Clergy from different denominations led prayers for his future, his family, and the continued development of Northern Uganda.

As he transitions from elective politics, Obua reaffirmed his commitment to serving the region and the nation in other capacities. The gathering closed on a note of unity and hope, blending faith, reflection, and celebration of a leadership journey that has left a lasting imprint on Ajuri County.